PRESIDENTIAL Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro has confirmed that she is seeking P500 million in damages from Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste. This demand is part of a cyber libel case filed by Usec. Castro is opposing the congressman due to alleged defamatory statements made by Leviste.
Usec. Castro stated that the substantial amount sought is due to Leviste’s alleged actions of “twisting some facts in the complaint,” which she believes have severely damaged her integrity as a Palace Press Officer. Citing the irreparable harm to her professional reputation, she asserted her entitlement to such damages. The filing of the cyber libel case underscores the seriousness with which Usec. Castro views the alleged transgressions by the congressman.
In response to the lawsuit, Rep. Leviste had previously asserted that he has no obligation to pay Usec. Castro has the damages she is seeking.
However, he did express a willingness to cover the press secretary’s potential medical expenses should the need arise, a statement that appears to downplay the severity of the alleged libel. This contrasting stance highlights the ongoing dispute and the differing perspectives on the impact of Leviste’s alleged statements.
The cyber libel case involves significant damages sought by Usec. Castro signaled a high-profile legal battle between a Palace official and a sitting member of Congress. The outcome of this case could have implications for how public officials handle accusations and the potential legal consequences for disseminating information that is perceived as defamatory, particularly in the digital realm. As the legal proceedings progress, we anticipate the emergence of further details regarding the specific allegations and evidence.
SLEEPLESS NIGHTS, ANXIETY
In response to the lawsuit, Rep. Leviste has questioned the basis for Usec. Castro’s claims, particularly her alleged suffering from “sleepless nights and anxiety.”
He stated, “Mabuti kung maglabas ng medical certificate ang doktor ni USec Claire Castro na talagang dumaranas siya ng ‘sleepless nights and anxiety,’ para malaman kung anong paggamot ang sasagutin natin para sa kanya. (Kahit wala akong obligasyon sa kanya)” This translates to: “It would be good if Usec. Claire Castro’s doctor issues a medical certificate stating she is truly experiencing ‘sleepless nights and anxiety,’ so we know what treatment we would be covering for her. (Even though I have no obligation to her).” Leviste’s statement implies skepticism about the extent of Castro’s alleged distress and her claim for damages.
Leviste further added that the public is interested in the health status of government officials and the scrutiny of their work, especially considering the P2.46 billion budget allocated for Usec. Claire’s office in 2026. He also mentioned that the Commission on Appointments has not yet confirmed Acting Secretary Dave Gomez. This context suggests Leviste believes transparency regarding the well-being and performance of high-ranking officials, particularly those with significant budgets, is crucial for public accountability.
The cyber libel case initiated by Usec. Castro against Rep. Leviste highlights a contentious dispute between a government official and a lawmaker. While Castro seeks significant financial damages for alleged reputational harm, Leviste has publicly questioned the validity of her claims and emphasized the public’s interest in the accountability of government personnel. The legal proceedings are expected to shed further light on the specific allegations and the evidence presented by both parties.
